Bakewell and Glossop’s community transport get funding boost

Bakewell and Glossop’s community transport schemes are two of seven in Derbyshire to share £1.5m in grants from the county council.

Both charities, based in Great Longstone Business Park and on Mill Street, Glossop, will each receive £186,347.

The grants are to enable the voluntary organisations to provide a range of journeys for people who are unable to use conventional public transport because services are limited or because of age or disability.

They run door-to-door, wheelchair-accessible minibuses, many with passenger assistants, and cars driven by volunteers for people to get to essential services such as the shops and healthcare appointments.

Cllr Andy Botham, deputy cabinet member for jobs, economy and transport, said: “Community transport plays a vital role in Derbyshire in helping people who would otherwise find it difficult to get out and about keep on the move and so retain their independence.

“I’m pleased that we can continue their funding next year at the same level it has been this year. These services also make an important contribution to supporting employment in Derbyshire.

“They provide jobs for drivers and passenger assistants, as well as providing volunteering opportunities and help for people with poor travel options who would otherwise find a lack of transport a barrier to work.”

The council is also to continue its funding of £50,000 to the Wheels to Work project, based in Wirksworth, aimed at ensuring that young people in Derbyshire can get to work or training opportunities by loaning a moped or bike.